At a time when the entertainment industry is replete with various comic book adaptations, animators, producers, and directors are experimenting with a range of creative storytelling techniques to engage their audiences.

Print works, such as comic books and graphic novels have long been the preferred means of audiences to read up on their favorite comic book collections. However, with the advent of the digital revolution, the traditional print comics have evolved into a channel what are known as motion comics. This animation, although at its infancy, is gaining greater traction as audiences look for new ways to consume media. In this post, we provide a brief guide to motion comic animation and what are some of its applications for you as a business.

What is motion comic animation?

Motion comic refers to an animation style which combines both elements of animation and print comics. Motion comics do not contain text either for speech bubbles or to show sound effects. Instead, it uses actual voice acting and effects within expanded individual panels to illustrate a full scene.

Motions comics first took the spotlight in the 1960s; comic book stories were fused with animation to show audiences. However, the technology at the time did not allow animators enough freedom to experiment with different techniques. Decades later, the advancement of 2d animation provided animators with the means to show depth and bring life to their comic book characters.

What are its features?

Motion comic animations are distinct in style and form compared to other types of animations. Firstly, motion comics rely on traditional comic book artwork and drawings that are illustrated via animation. Therefore, a motion comic animation's artwork will resemble that of print comics.
Secondly, the amount of animation used in motion comics is less than that of other animations. It is used to such an extent that the viewer feels that they are reading print comics, except there is enough movement to give the impression of an animation. The emphasis is to accentuate the experience of reading an actual print comic book, but with enough movement to build an immersive experience.

Benefits of motion comics

Motion comics are generally less cumbersome to produce than full-fledged 2d or 3d animations. This is because the animator simply has to base motion comics on artwork and add a few effects to enliven the feel of the individual panes. 2d animations, on the other hand, involve a lot more work. Each scene has to be thought in terms of lighting effects and environment modeling to give a realistic and accurate design and feel.

Furthermore, motion comics are a great means of preserving the look and feel of traditional comic book artwork, which fans are comfortable with and bring them into light with excellent voice acting and sound effects. The application of motion comics do not only have to be restricted to comic book adaptations, but also can be used in the form of corporate advertising and for branding purposes.

Creative storytelling resonates deeply with people, and firms can make a strong impression on their audiences through the use of something as innovative and unique as motion comics.